In Episode 7 of NHL Wraparound, hosts Neil Smith and Vic Morren welcome Brian Engblom—former NHL defenseman and current Tampa Bay Lightning broadcaster—for a candid conversation about the balance between physicality, player safety, and the evolution of the game.

The episode opens with a look at the impulsive nature of general managers near the trade deadline, followed by reactions to the Nashville Predators’ turnaround and the impact of Dylan Larkin’s injury on the Detroit Red Wings.

Brian Engblom joins to break down the Tampa Bay Lightning’s performance, including discussions on Nikita Kucherov, Steven Stamkos’ contract situation, and what’s ahead for the team heading into the playoff stretch. He also shares his thoughts on national vs. team-specific coverage and how it affects player narratives.

The conversation expands into a broader discussion of fighting, enforcers, and safety in today’s NHL, including the growing attention to head injuries, high-sticking penalties, and the league’s evolution in protecting players while preserving the game’s physical roots.

The episode closes with The Human Side of the Story, featuring personal reflections, behind-the-scenes moments, and a teaser about next week’s guest, Mike Santos.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[00:36] Trade deadline pressure on general managers

[01:51] Nashville’s rebound and team dynamics

[02:45] The injury to Dylan Larkin and its effect on Detroit

[12:12] Brian Engblom joins the show

[12:42] Team vs. national media coverage in the NHL

[15:03] Tampa Bay Lightning season breakdown

[19:45] Spotlight on Nikita Kucherov

[24:00] Steven Stamkos’ future with Tampa

[26:36] Potential trades and Lightning’s playoff push

[35:51] Brian Engblom’s playing career and journey to broadcasting

[36:00] The role of Matt Rempe and the enforcer tradition

[37:06] Fighting’s place in today’s NHL

[38:27] Why enforcers still matter in protecting teammates

[42:30] Player safety: rule changes, gear, and enforcement

[47:45] The Human Side of the Story: personal moments and reflections

[53:20] Teaser: upcoming episode with Mike Santos

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Brian Engblom brings firsthand insight into how the Lightning are managing pressure, schedule fatigue, and player contracts.
• The discussion on fighting and enforcers raises deeper questions about safety, identity, and the spirit of the game.
• Personal stories highlight the human connections in hockey and how former players stay engaged through broadcasting and mentorship.
• The NHL’s rules around head contact and dangerous plays continue to evolve, but the debate around how much physicality should be preserved remains active.

LISTEN & SUBSCRIBE:

Find this episode on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms.

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgBj1LV0-DMfBhcRPSJZLjA

X: https://twitter.com/NHLWraparound

Neil Smith: https://twitter.com/NYCNeil

Vic Morren: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vic-morren-7038737/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nhlwraparound/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nhlwraparound

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555451139787

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ABOUT BRIAN ENGBLOM:

Brian Paul Engblom, born January 27, 1955, is a former NHL defenseman and current analyst for the Tampa Bay Lightning. A three-time Stanley Cup Champion with the Montreal Canadiens, Engblom transitioned into broadcasting after his playing career, becoming a respected voice on both national and local NHL coverage.

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